Music, Fashion, Culture - Set List

Monday, January 31, 2022

January 2022 Set List

 

1.  Let It Snow!  Let It Snow!  Let It Snow!
2.  Winter Wonderland
3.  Sleigh Ride
4.  Frosty the Snowman
5.  Silent Night
6.  Winter Marches On
7.  June in January 
8.  Cold Weather Blues
9.  Baby, It's Cold Outside
10.  Ghost Story

And there you have it.  January 2022 Set List.  Leave a shout out in the Comments section if you were to create your own set list.

Sunday, January 30, 2022

Set List Reader's Choice

In this edition of Set Lisat Reader's Choice, your top favorite is:

Fashion Wednesday

As a refresher, the fashion designer in the look book post was Ralph Lauren.  The theme of the look book post was celebrating the winter holidays with the gorgeous red and black blend into one luxury style.

If you loved what I shared in Fashion Wednesday, consider my spin-off blog, Ralph Lauren Boutique.

I really enjoy styling look books on Ralph Lauren Boutique and sharing the looks on Set List.  I can only hope that you enjoy as well.  

Saturday, January 29, 2022

zZoumds Music Shop - Gibson Custom

Due disclaimer - This post contains affiliate links and I may earn a small commission 0n any purhcase made at no cost to you.


"You Gotta Get a Gibson"

Overall -

Custom Shop -

Most expensive -
Gibson Custom 1958 Korina Explorer 
Electric Guitar (with Case)
$9,999 ... Payment Plan - $555.50 (18 Mo.)

Least expensive -
Gibson Dave Mustaine Flying V EXP 
Electric Guitar (with Case)
$2,799 - Payment Plan - $233.25 (12)/$155.50 (18)

You Gotta...



Friday, January 28, 2022

Shout Out Friday

In this edition of Shout Out Friday, I am featuring Tom Petty and his live rendition of "Learning to Fly," with guest singer, Stevie Nicks.

Happy Friday :)

Thursday, January 27, 2022

Set List Journal - Launch Entry


On this Thursday where normally I would be sharing Grammy Hall of Fame albums (and soon would share Grammy Hall of Fame singles), I have come to learn that my connection to the Grammy website is unsecured and dangerous if I bypass the warning.  And so instead Thursdays will be journal entries with, of course, music as entry topics.

In this launch edition of Set List Journal, I am reminiscing my early "duranie" days.  

I was only ten years old when I first heard "Ordinary World."  I was a bit too young to understand the meaning behind the lyrics to every song on the album, so I shelved the thought of a purchase until another time.

I was 21 years old when I came across "Reach Up For the Sunrise" and this time I was not too young.  A purchase was now a must.

The Astronaut album has special meaning to me beyond being my first album in what is now a very long collection.  Janet was my Grammy.  She was my father's mother as well as my aunt's.  She led a long and privileged life with wealth always at her doorstep.  She was, nonetheless, my grammy.  I once told her of my love for Duran Duran and the Astronaut album.  I was nervous and embarrassed to admit because who are they to her.  She laughed off my awkwardness and insisted on buying a copy for the upcoming holidays.  I was in shock and let's leave it at that.

Every time I listen to any of the songs on the album, I think of her.  She passed away in November 2021 at the age of 96.  We did not have a close bond but I did love her.  In the only way she knew to love me was with such a gesture as Duran Duran.

She used to call me love duck.  I will always call her Grammy.

Signing off for the day.

Wednesday, January 26, 2022

Fashion Wednesday

In this edition of Fashion Wednesday, I am once again sharing the Ralph Lauren theme.  Explore the look book below -

         

This look book is by far a personal favorite for its reminiscent tone of the Christmas hoiday season.  From the red skirt to the red pumps to the red bangle and accenting black fashion, I can only imagine decorating the home and the tree as snow falls to the frosted ground.  Presents are randomly but organized in placement.  The lost in aroma of the Christmas Eve dinner and oven baked chocolate chip cookies.  Christmas carols playing quietly in the background.  The cackle of wood burning fireplace logs.  A hint of dim, mood lighting...And all inspired by one outfit.

The outfit -

Sleeveless Cashmere Turtleneck Sweater

Red Plaid Midi Skirt

Red Pumps
(Retailer not listed)

Pave & Stone Bangle Bracelet

Crossbody Bag

I adore the Ralph Lauren brand for its pure Americana luxury designs.  I will always wish for the magic of the holiday season to last year round.  Of course in seeing that the wish cannot come true, simply imagine the sense.

I will always have a passion for styling and writng about Ralph Lauren.

Tuesday, January 25, 2022

Amswer to the Song Special Edition

Guess the Song Refresher -

Beverly Hills Cop  (1984)
(Think Eddie Murphy)

Fletch (1985)
(Think Chevy Chase)

Genre - Electrnoic
TItle tracks - "Axel F" and "Fletch Theme"

Composer - Harold Faltermeyer
(Harold Faltermeyer won two Grammy Awards for Beverly Hills Cop and, actually, Top Gun which premiered in 1986.)


Monday, January 24, 2022

Guess the Song Special Edition

Guess the song is a challenge to know a full song based on one random lyric.  The experience is meant to be fun and engaging.

In this special edition of Guess the Song, I am listing two films with a similar theme.  Your goal is to guess the genre and composer.  Although you are able to research the answer, you can get a huge bonus if you know on your own.

So.  Ready for Guess the Song Special Edition?

In 1984, Beverly Hills Cop premiered.  In 1985, Fletch premiered.

What was the genre theme and (hint) the composer for both films?

Sunday, January 23, 2022

Set List Reader's Choice

In this edition of Set List Reader's Choice, your top favorite is:

Answer to the Song

Backtrack - The answer was "The Heat Is On" by Glenn Frey.  The lyric was "the shadows high on the darker side."

"The Heat Is On" is an '80s classic and perfect for the film.  Yet there are other songs on the Beverly Hills Cop soundtrack that are just as defining for the film and the decade.  Consider -

"Neutron Dance" - The Pointer Sisters

"Stir It Up" - Patti LaBelle

"Axel F" -  Harold Faltermeyer

Nick Rhodes added a layer to music through synthesizers that adjusted songs in a way not necessarily thought of.  The result - Debut to present.

"Axel F" did the same with perfectly noted electronics in perfectly timed scenes.  This song went on to earn Silver certification in the UK with 250,000 in sales.  (Wikipedia)

And there you have it - your top favorite for the week.  Have a great Sunday!

Saturday, January 22, 2022

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Due disclaimer - This post contains affiliate links and I may earn a small commission on any purchase made.

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Friday, January 21, 2022

Shout Out Friday

In this edition of Shout Out Friday, I am featuring Simon Le Bon and Andy Taylor with their acoustic version of "Save a Prayer" as performed live on televsion.

There are only two songs that bring about emotional tears - "Ave Maria" and "Beautiful Morning."  The acoustic performance in this post is a third.

Happy Friday :)

Thursday, January 20, 2022

Grammy Hall oif Fame - The Doors (Album)

In this edition of Grammy Hall of Fame, the eponymous debut  album, The Doors, by The Doors was inducted in 2002.



The background behind the album is extensive and long to write here so follow the Wikipedia link above to learn more.

Notes -
Released in 1967
"Light My Fire" top single 
Influenced by jazz, classical, blues, pop, R&B, Rock
Driven by the psychedelic rock movement

Honors -
Included in the National Recording Registry (2015)

Point of interest - The album initially failed to chart upon release.  In 1991, the album was given a second chance and landed No. 43.

The Doors Line-up
Jim Morrison - Vocals
Ray Manzarek - 
- Organ, Piano, Keyboard Bass, Backing  Vocals
Robby Krieger -
-  Guitar, Bass (Select song), Backing Vocals (Select song)
John Densmore -
- Drums, Percussion, Backing Vocals (Select song)

Lists -
No. 42 on Rolling Stone's 500 Greatest Albums of All Time 
(No. 86 in 2020)
No. 75 on Q magazine's 100 Greatest Albums Ever
No. 226 on NME magazine's 500 Greatest Albums of All Time

Certifications -

Gold in Spain and Sweden

Platinum in Argentina, Austria, Germany, Italy, and Switzerland

2x Platinum in the UK

3x Platinum in France

4x Platinum and the U.S.

Although I am not familiar with The Doors and their albums, such as their debut, I am intrigued in what they have to offer in American rock music.  I would personally like to give "Light My Fire" a chance as the song was edited from its original recording to air in the U.S., so what will I be missing?  Guess I will find out!

Wednesday, January 19, 2022

Fashion Wednesday

In this editiom of Fashion Wednesday, I am continuing the Ralph Lauren theme.  Enjoy and explore Americana luxury.


Ralph Lauren designs are classic, understated, and timeless.  RL designs also offer a touch of modern and trending.  Anything Ralph Lauren is possible for anyone with interest.

With that said,

Polo Ralph Lauren Blazer

Ralph Lauren Collectiom Brown HIgh-Waisted Straight-Leg Trousers

Ralph Lauren Celia Olive Suede Pumps

Lauren Ralph Lauren Gold-Tone Pave & Imitation  Pearl Drop Earrings

Ralph Lauren Mini Steel Stirrup Watch

Polo Ralph Lauren Wool-Blend Houndstooth Coat

Lauren Ralph Lauren Huntington Leather Crossbody Bag 

If I were to define the look book in this post, I would say neutral and natural colors, business formal, classic, and understated.

The one item that stands out the most is the Polo Ralph Lauren Wool-Blend Houndstooth Coat.  Houndstooth is generally bold black and white.  The coat in this look book is refined, muted in color, and offers a sense of maintaining warmth in a cold season.

Ralph Lauren is a favorite brand with passion to continue styling and writing about.

Tuesday, January 18, 2022

Answer to the Song

Guess the song - "The shadows high on the darker side"

Answer to the song - "The Heat Is On" by Glenn Frey

"The Heat Is On" was released as a single in 1984 and is the sixth song on the soundtrack for the original Beverly Hills Cop. 


Monday, January 17, 2022

Guess the Song

Refresher -

Guess the Song is a challenge to know a full song based on one random lyric.  The experience is meant to be fun and engaging.

Mondays allow you the chance to research the lyric until you find the song.  If you do, share in the Comments section at the end the post.  (Bonus if you also know the name of the album without research.)  If you are not sure, wait until Answer to the Song that airs every Tuesday.  On Tuesdays, I will share the song, the musician/band, and even the album.

With that said, are you ready to play Guess the Song?

Lyric - "The shadows high on the darker side"

Sunday, January 16, 2022

Set List Reader's Choice

In this edition of Set List Reader's Choice, your top favorite is:

Guess the Song

Lyric - "Nightfall covers me"

Answer - "A View to a Kill" (Duran Duran)

I have shared the Live frm London performance of the song, the recorded version, the offical music video, and the cover portrait.

All that is left to say is the film itself.  From cast to plot to music to release to reviews.  Follow Wikipedia to read more.

"Bond.  James Bond."

Saturday, January 15, 2022

zZounds Clearance

Due disclaimer - This post contains affiliate links and I may earn a small commission on any purchase made.

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Friday, January 14, 2022

Shout Out Friday

In this edition of Shout Out Friday, I am featuring Prince and his acoustic performace live at the Palace of Auburn Hills.

Happy Friday :)

Thursday, January 13, 2022

Grammy Hall of Fame - The Dark Side of the Moon

In this edition of Grammy Hall of Fame, The Dark Side of the Moon by Pink Floyd was inducted in 1999.



The full details behind the album are exhausting to share here so if you want to know more, follow the Wikipedia link above.

Notes -
8th album released in 1973
Pink Floyd's most successful album with over 45 million copies sold

Honors -
Preserved in the U.S. National Recording Registry (2012)

Point of intrigue - The Dark Side of the Moon is the 7th best-selling album of all time in the UK yet even as the highest selling album, it never reached No. 1. (2017)

Pink Floyd Line-up
David Gilmour - Vocals, Guitars, Synthi AKS
Nick Mason - Drums, Percussion, Tape Effects
Richard Wright - Organ, Piano, Electric Piano, Synthi AKS, Vocals
Roger Waters - Bass Guitar, Vocals, VCS 3, Tape Effects

Certifications -

Gold in Belgium, Canada, Czech Republic
Gold in Germany (video) ... 2x Platinum

Silver in Portugal

Platinum in the UK (video), Russia, Poland (Warner Music 20,000 sales & EMI 70,000 sales), France

2x Platinum in Argentina (certified in 1991)
2x Platinum in Argentina (certified in 1994)
2x Platinum in Austria

3x Platinum in the U.S. (video) ... 15x Platinum in the U.S. (certified sales 1973 - 1998)

4x Platinum in Australia (video)

5x Platinum in Canada ... 2x Diamond in Canada

6x Platinum in Italy 

16x Platinum in New Zealand
15x in the UK

Proof of success in numbers alone is profoundly impressive and a band worth considering.

Grammy Hall of Fame - Crosby, Stills & Nash

In this edition of Grammy Hall of Fame, Crosby, Stills & Nash is a self-titled album inducted in 1999.



Crosby, Stills & Nash is the band's debut album, released in 1969.

Notes -
Two Top 40 singles
The album reached No. 6 on Billboard Top Pop Albums chart.

Honors -
Grammy Award for Best New Artist

Certifications -
Gold in the UK and France
Platinum in Australia
4x Platinum in the U.S.

*Refer to the Wikipedia link above for a detailed history and more.

Grammy Hall of Fame - Come Fly with Me

In this edition of Grammy Hall of Fame, Come Fly with Me by Frank Sinatra was inducted in 2004.


Notes -
14th album
Released in 1958

Honors -
No. 1 on Billboard album chart
Grammy Nomination for Album of the Year*
*The nomination came during the inaugural Grammy Awards.

Point of intrigue - Frank Sinatra did not write the lyrics.  My personal judgment would lean fairly toward songwriters, Sammy Cahn and Jimmy Van Heusen.

Of the six songs on Side One and six songs on Side Two, Frank Sinatra was not involved in the actual compositions.

I will conclude this post with those last words.

Grammy Hall of Fame - Class Clown

In this edition of Grammy Hall of Fame, Class Clown by George Carlin was inducted in 2010.



Class Clown is George Carlin's 4th album, released in May 1972

I personally did not think much could be said of this album because it was pure comedy based on real topics in life.  I always highlight honors and certifications.  Class Clown only had one that, at the end of the day, was impressive and profound.  What else could be said was his sketchy humor - namely massive censorship that he truly did not believe in.

If historic pop culture recalls - pregnant, sex, profanity (possibly including "hell")  and more that could not even be said on radio.nn

George Carlin dedicated the album to Lenny Bruce - a comedian who paved the way for future comedians defying government censorship.

As time progressed, performers such as Eddie Murphy stretched the boundary and passed.  Stand-up performers such as Jerry Seinfeld defined an alternative to humor with relating common situations that can be true to many.  Eddie was exceptionally rough around the edges but shined as an actor.  Jerry was clean cut on and off camera.  

Current humor in pop culture has come into an agreement with censor guidelines - "hell," "damn," and "son of a bitch" are accepted.  "F***" will always be masked.

With that said, I will conclude with one honor recognizing Class Clown as preservation in the National Recording Registry.  (2016)

Thought you would want to know - George Carlin was the first host in the debut of Saturday Night Live (1975).

Thought you would want to know - smoking cigarettes was permitted, and not just on SNL (and yet swearing was banned on film).

For a post that was expected to be short found me impressed by George Carlin.                                                                                                                           

Wednesday, January 12, 2022

Fashion Wednesday

In this edition of Fashion Wednesday, I am continuing with Ralph Lauren style.  Explore and enjoy the world of Americana luxury.


*Note - If you apply for a Ralph Lauren account (free), you receive fast and free shipping - no limit.  With an account, you can create a wish list completely customized to your interest.

I digress.

Ralph Lauren is of great interest and intrigue for classic, understated, and timeless designs with a touch of modern and creative.  His work appeals to so many.

With that said,

Polo Ralph Lauren Grey Sweater

Lauren Ralph Lauren Denim Skirt

Ralph Lauren Footwear

Ralph Lauren Sunglasses

Lauren Ralph Lauren Crossbody Bag

If I were to define the look in this post, I would say casual (jean skirt, footwear) with a touch of formal (the sweater as a classic design).

The sunglasses and crossbody are just too awesome.

Ralph Lauren is a personally favorite brand with passion to continue styling and write about.

Tuesday, January 11, 2022

Answer to the Song

Guess the song - "Night fall covers me"

Answer to the song - "A View to a Kill" by Duran Duran 

Bonus - The answer is the same title as the film.

Point of interest - Duran Duran's recording was backed by a 60-piece orchestra.

Point of interest - John Taylor put through a request to producer, Cubby Broccoli, while at a party.  John is a Bond fan and encouraged Cubby to let Duran Duran play the theme.  Of course, the musical history can go from there.

"A View to a Kill" was released in May 1985.


Honors - 
Golden Gold Nomination for Best Original Song

No. 1 on Billboard Hot 100 - Only Bond theme to reach No. 1
No. 2 on UK Singles Chart

Music video - Of every intriguing aspect of the music video, the last line of the song rests with Simon.  "Bon.  Simon Le Bon."

(Wikipedia)

Monday, January 10, 2022

Guess the Song

Refresher -

Guess the Song is a challenge to test your musical knowledge based on one lyric.  Each lyric is at random to make the experience fun.

If you are not sure, "Answer to the Song" airs every Tuesday to not only answer the song but also provide the name of the musician.  If you know the song and musician on Mondays, leave a shout in the Comments section at the end of the post.  Set List deal - You can research the lyric to find the answer, but leave what you have on Tuesdays.

On Tuesdays, I will also post the album and brief background.  (Bonus if you also know the name of the album.)

So.  Are you ready to play "Guess the Song"?

Lyric - "Night fall covers me"

Sunday, January 9, 2022

Set List Reader's Favorite

In this first Reader's Favorite 9f 2022, y9ur top choice is:

Answer to the Song

The original "Guess the Song" lyric to then turn into the next day's answer was "This is the end."  The answer was Skyfall  - song and film of the same name.

I completed the launch edition of Guess the Song and Answer to the Song with Adele's live performance at the Academy Awards a few years ago.



Skyfall premiered in London in October 2012, the UK shortly thereafter in October, and in early November in North America as the 23rd edition of the James Bond series.  Skyfall is the third starring Daniel Craig as the new generation in 007.

Accolades - 2 Academy Awards, 2 BAFTA Awards, 2 Grammy Awards, Grossed $1 billion - the only Bond film to achieve such acute financial success.  The film was listed as the seventh highest grossing of all time.  The film was listed as the highest grossing film in the UK.

Skyfall earned several nominations, wins, and impressive dollar signs upon premiering.

And this is where I will leave off.

Saturday, January 8, 2022

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Friday, January 7, 2022

Shout Out Friday

When they were on t0ur f0r Astronaut, they stopped by Good Morning America for a brief  performance 0utd00rs.  The month - crisp October.  Audience - A good lot.  Did the cold bother anyone?  No...perhaps the band.

In my launch edition of Shout Out Friday, I considered a move to California for warmer weather...specifically coming across "Hotel California."  The song was played live in an acoustic version.

In today's selection, I am sharing Eric Clapton's live acoustic version of "Layla" with a warm up on stage.

- Certifications -

Gold in Australia & Japan
Platinum in the UK

- Accolades -

Grammy Award for Best Rock Song (1993)

N0. 27 on Rolling Stone's 500 Greatest Songs of All Time (2004)

Rock and Roll Hall of Fame 500 Songs that Shaped Rock and Roll

Thursday, January 6, 2022

Grammy Hall of Fame - Catch a Fire Album

In this edition of Grammy Hall of Fame, Catch a Fire by Bob Marley and the Wailers was inducted in 2010.


Catch a Fire is Bob and the Wailers' fifth studio album, released in 1973.

Genre considered - Reggae 

The band's home base for recording was in Jamaica.  

171 on Billb0ard 200

No. 176 on Rolling Stone's 500 Greatest Albums of All Time

Tracks Side One
1.  Concrete Jungle
2.  Slave Driver 
3.  400 Years
4.  Stop That Train
5.  Baby We've Got a Date (Rock It Baby)

Tracks Side Two 
6.  Stir Up
7.  Kinky Reggae
8.  No More Trouble
9.  Midnight Ravers

Bonus Tracks
10.  High Tide or Low Tide
11.   All Day All Night

Original Personnel
Bob Marley - Guitar, Vocals
Peter Tosh - Organ, Guitar, Piano, Vocals
Bunny Wailer - Bongo, Conga, Vocals
Aston 'Family Man" Barrett - Bass Guitar
Carlton "Carlie" Barrett - Drums
Rita Marley - Backing Vocals
Marcia Griffiths - Backing Vocals

Wednesday, January 5, 2022

Fashion Wednesday

I firmly believe that music and fashion blend into one.  For example, the partnership between musicians and models.  Set List is defined by a variety of genres.  In this launch edition of Fashion Wednesday, I am exploring the world of luxury style.

And so it begins.


Ralph Lauren

At a department store level, I am best inspired by Bloomingdale's and the luxury products on racks and in displays.

At a designer level, Ralph Lauren is a top favorite based in the United States, especially in New York City.

RL designs are classic yet modern, creative yet understated, and always timeless.

For example, consider the look book in this post -

Ralph Lauren T-Shirt

Ralph Lauren Collection Simone Wool Pants

Ralph Lauren Celia High-Heel Pumps

Lauren Ralph Lauren Gold-Tone Pave & Imitation Pearl Drop Earrings

Ralph Lauren Mini Steel Stirrup Watch

Polo Ralph Lauren Wool-Blend Blazer

Lauren Ralph Lauren Huntington Leather Crossbody Bag

This Ralph Lauren design is basic in tone and ideal for business casual.

My interest in fashion, for both women and men, is inspired by so many global designers.  Close to home though and reasons stated above, Ralph Lauren is my personal preference to wear and write ab0ut. 

Tuesday, January 4, 2022

Answer to the Song

Guess the Song - "This is the end"

Answer - "Skyfall" by Adele

Bonus - The answer is the same title as the film.  

Background - Adele took to the song after reading the script.  She was inspired by former Bond themes.  

Acclaim - Top 1 in eleven countries ... No. 2 on UK Singles Chart ... No. 8 on Billboard Hot 100 ... 7.2 million copies sold worldwide

Awards - Academy Award (Best Original Song) ... Brit Award (British single) ... Critics Choice Movie (Best Song) ... Golden Globe Award (Best Original Song) ... Grammy Award (Best Song Written for Visual Media)

First Bond theme to receive an Academy Award nomination and win

Performed live for the first time at the 85th Academy Awards 

Certifications -

Gold in Australia, Finland, New Zealand

Platinum in Belgium, Denmark, Germany 

2x Platinum in Italy, Mexico, UK, U.S.

5x Platinum in Canada

Wikipedia